Christopher and His Kind is Christopher Isherwood’s candid memoir about his years in Berlin (1929–1939), a period that would later inspire his most famous works, including Goodbye to Berlin (the basis for Cabaret). This autobiographical account provides a deeply personal look at Isherwood’s experiences as a young writer exploring his sexuality and witnessing the rise of Nazi Germany.

The book details his relationships, particularly with his lover Heinz Neddermeyer, and his interactions with the bohemian and queer communities of Weimar-era Berlin. Isherwood also reflects on his friendships with figures like W.H. Auden and Stephen Spender, offering insights into the literary and political landscapes of the time.

Why read this book?

• A raw, honest memoir that explores sexuality, self-discovery, and political upheaval.

• A vivid portrait of 1930s Berlin, capturing the city’s vibrant yet precarious cultural scene before the Nazi regime took hold.

• A crucial piece of LGBTQ+ history, shedding light on queer life in a time of growing oppression.

• An inside look at literary circles, featuring famous writers and their political and artistic dilemmas.

About the Author

Christopher Isherwood (1904–1986) was an English-American novelist and playwright best known for Goodbye to Berlin, A Single Man, and The Berlin Stories. His work often explored themes of identity, sexuality, and political unrest, making him a significant figure in both 20th-century literature and LGBTQ+ history.